Summer camp is all about fun for the kids, but we understand for the adults behind the scenes, it takes planning. This guide crafted from our experts at Graves Foods will help you create a delicious and nutritious summer camp menu that even picky eaters will love.

Know Your Resources

When crafting your menu, it is important to take into consideration the available resources you have to work with. You must know if your facility can handle the demands of your menu. This will affect the overall design of the menu because you may not have many ovens to work with or limited space in your freezer. Here are some things our Graves Foods experts recommend taking into consideration:

Staff: How many people can help with meals, and when? Plan meals that fit your staffing limitations.

Campers vs. Staff: Account for different portion sizes for adults and children.

Kitchen & Storage: Choose recipes that work with your available equipment (ovens, refrigerators, freezers). Consider renting extra storage if needed.

Food Variety and Nutrition

It is essential to feature a good variety of food options in your summer camp menu. Planning to accommodate food allergies or restrictions will help in ensuring all campers are able to consume menu items. You don’t need to eliminate certain categories of food from your menu, but rather select the healthiest options from each category.

Having an organized approach to the food service at your camp will help you to develop a menu that is both nutritionally balanced and exciting, but also accommodating to all special dietary needs.

Salad Bar Variations: Offer pre-cut veggies, fruits, and dips alongside main dishes for customizable meals. Think “build-your-own” options like burgers or potato bars with various toppings.

Dietary Needs: Accommodate allergies and preferences with gluten-free bread, plant-based milk, or alternative proteins.

Planning and Ordering

Planning ahead of time will help you ensure you are not left with an excess of food or too little food. Do the necessary calculations regarding food for the upcoming season and the menu you have developed. With this data compiled, you can then begin to organize your orders. The more ahead of time you get the details ironed out, the easier it will be to have a successful summer camp foodservice.

Calculate Food Amounts: Based on your camper and staff count, figure out how much food you’ll need.

Order Early: The sooner you place your orders, the smoother your menu planning will go.

Crafting a nutritious summer camp menu ensures that campers not only enjoy their experiences, but also receive the essential nutrients needed for an active and memorable summer. By knowing your resources, incorporating food variety and nutrition, and planning your ordering ahead, you will be able to count on an enjoyable summer camp experience!

Need some assistance crafting your menu? Let our professionals assist you in making your Summer camp foodservice a positive and fun experience for all.

Contact Us